Review: PETE REX at 59E59 Theaters Captivates with Modern and Prehistoric Themes

"We're together again, just like old times."

-by Nero in Pete Rex

The Dreamscape Theatre is currently presenting the NYC premiere of Pete Rex at 59E59 Theaters through March 3. Written by Alexander V. Thompson and directed by Brad Raimondo, it ingeniously melds modern and prehistoric themes. This is an affecting, yet entertaining show that features creative staging and and excellent cast.

Pete is a young man who lives in the small town of New Kensington and he is clearly depressed. He has recently broken up with his girlfriend, Julie who feels she must move on. Pete's college studies and dreams of becoming a paleontologist are completely stalled. It seems that Pete's greatest pleasure is to engage in video game play dubbed, "Madden Tuesdays" with his long-time friend, Bo. The disarray in Pete's life is cleverly juxtaposed with his fascination for dinosaurs. As the town experiences an invasion of prehistoric beasts, a persuasive Tyrannosaur named Nero comes to life in Pete's home as throwback to his childhood fantasies. Captivating and sometimes bizarre, this is also an insightful story about survival and the fragility of humankind.

The cast features Greg Carere as Pete; Rosie Sowa as Julie; Simon Winheld plays both Bo and Nero. The three actors master their roles as they depict very authentic relationships along with the tale's humor and lively action-packed scenes.

The design team has done a great job of bringing Pete Rex to life by creating a realistic living space, vibrant sound effects, great costuming and projections that complement the story. They include set and costume design by Caitlin Cisek; assistant costume design by Melody Brocious; lighting design by Remy M. Leelike; sound design by Megan Culley; fight choreography by Michael Eisenstein. The Production Stage Manager is Patrick Harnett-Marshall and the Assistant Stage Manager is Michelle Navis.

Pete Rex is a one-of-a-kind theatrical event and the intimate performance space at the theater is the perfect venue for the show. Compliments all around on this inventive production.

Pete Rex will be performed for a limited engagement through Saturday, March 3. The schedule is Tuesday - Saturday at 7:30 PM; Sunday at 2:30 PM. Performances are at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues). Single tickets are $25 ($20 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at 212.279.4200 or visit http://www.59e59.org/.

Photo Credit: Hugh Mackey

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